Video: California Chrome Duo Throw First Pitches At Yankee Stadium

Kentucky Derby and Preakness winner California Chrome trains with jockey Victor Espinoza at Belmont Park on May 31, 2014. He is scheduled to race for the Triple Crown in the 146th running of the Belmont Stakes. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)Kentucky Derby and Preakness winner California Chrome trains with jockey Victor Espinoza at Belmont Park on May 31, 2014. He is scheduled to race for the Triple Crown in the 146th running of the Belmont Stakes. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images)

NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) — It’s an honor that can go very, very wrong. But California Chrome’s jockey and assistant trainer were right on the money Monday night when they tossed the ceremonial first pitches at Yankee Stadium.

And Espinoza is confident it won’t be a repeat of his Triple Crown chance with War Emblem in 2002, which was doomed from the start.

“In one second, I already know I’m done because I lost my chance out of the gate,” Espinoza said, according to Newsday. “California Chrome is different. He’s really kind. He’s got tremendous balance, and he likes to run anywhere. Whatever I want him to do, he will do it. So that’s my big advantage I have.”

California Chrome is looking to become the first Triple Crown winner since Affirmed in 1978.